Wedding Photography Styles: Why I Blend Documentary, Photojournalistic & Traditional Approaches
When you start planning your wedding, you’ll probably hear a lot of buzzwords around photography styles—documentary, photojournalistic, traditional, editorial, and more. It can feel a little overwhelming, especially if you’re not totally sure what those styles actually mean.
The truth is, most wedding days don’t fit neatly into one box—and neither should your photos. That’s why I don’t shoot in just one style. Instead, I blend elements of documentary, photojournalistic, and traditional photography to create a wedding gallery that’s real, emotional, and timeless.
Here’s what each of those styles means—and why combining them gives you the best of all worlds.
Documentary Style: Real Moments, Unposed
Documentary photography is all about letting the day unfold naturally. I’m not there to stage your story—I’m there to witness it. The tearful hugs, the stolen glances, the spontaneous laughter between you and your favorite people… these are the moments you don’t plan, but end up meaning the most.
With a documentary approach, I step back and let things breathe. I’ll capture your day as it really happens, with minimal interference—so your memories feel authentic, not curated.
Photojournalistic Style: Storytelling With Purpose
Photojournalism goes hand in hand with documentary, but with a stronger focus on storytelling and context. Think of it like a visual narrative—your entire wedding day told from beginning to end, complete with emotion, atmosphere, and all the little details in between.
From the quiet anticipation of getting ready to the epic dance floor moments, I use my camera to tell the full story—honestly, creatively, and with intention.
Traditional Style: Timeless Portraits & Must-Have Moments
While I love the real, in-the-moment stuff, I also believe in the power of a classic. Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and there are certain shots—like family formals, bridal party portraits, and those dreamy couple poses—that you’ll want to look back on forever.
That’s where a traditional approach comes in. I guide you with natural direction (never stiff or overly posed) to make sure you look and feel your best. These are the photos your parents will frame, and your future grandkids will smile at.
Why I Blend All Three
Every couple is different. Every wedding is unique. And every moment deserves its own approach.
Some parts of the day call for quiet observation. Others need a bit of gentle direction. By blending these styles, I’m able to:
Capture genuine emotion without missing key moments
Tell your full story without interrupting the experience
Deliver a gallery that feels both modern and timeless
It’s not about choosing one style—it’s about choosing you. Your energy. Your vibe. Your connection.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, my goal is to give you a collection of images that feel real—ones that take you back to exactly how it felt, while also standing the test of time.
So whether I’m blending into the background during your vows, directing your family for a quick formal, or chasing the light during golden hour, you can trust I’m capturing your day with care, creativity, and heart.
Ready to have your story told your way? I’d love to hear more about your vision—and bring it to life with a style that’s all your own.
